Crown of Thorns

Ch 8: The Holy Union

The moment the gates of Alantara opened to welcome the procession from Neitreyi, Prince Nivin was taken aback by the grandeur of the kingdom. The vast landscapes were adorned with lush gardens, intricate sculptures, and fountains that shimmered in the sunlight. Towering spires of the castle gleamed in the distance, indicating the might and opulence of the Alantara Kingdom.

As the carriage rolled on, Nivin observed the curious eyes of the Alantarans. Whispers filled the air as the people marveled at the beauty and grace of the foreign prince. Nivin, although apprehensive, tried to maintain his composure, reminding himself of the purpose of his journey.

Upon reaching the castle gates, they were greeted by the King and Queen of Alantara. Both royals emanated authority and warmth. The king, with a broad smile, embraced Nivin, while the queen gently held his hands, welcoming him to their kingdom.

Inside the castle, the grandeur was even more overwhelming. Majestic halls adorned with gold and precious stones, intricate tapestries depicting the history of Alantara, and the mesmerizing melodies of musicians playing in the courtyards created an atmosphere of festivity and celebration.

Princess Ashmitha, Prince Abhey's sister, approached Nivin with a warm smile. "Welcome to Alantara, Prince Nivin," she said, curtsying gracefully. Her beauty was unparalleled, and her elegance was evident in every gesture. "I hope your journey was comfortable." Nivin nodded, "It was, thank you, Princess. Your kingdom is breathtaking." She chuckled, "Wait till you see more of it. Come, let me show you around."

As they walked through the castle corridors, Ashmitha narrated tales of Alantara's glorious past, its traditions, and its customs. Nivin was particularly fascinated by the stories of brave warriors and legendary romances that shaped the destiny of the kingdom. However, amidst the grandeur and festivities, a pang of sadness gripped Nivin's heart. He missed his family, especially his parents. The absence of familiar faces in such a foreign land made him feel isolated. The dreams he had of his wedding, filled with joyous moments with his family, now seemed distant and unattainable.

The preparations for the wedding were in full swing. Artisans and craftsmen worked tirelessly, ensuring every detail was perfect. Nivin was presented with a plethora of outfits, each more exquisite than the other. The fabrics were soft as silk, adorned with intricate embroidery and shimmering embellishments. However, Nivin couldn't help but notice the femininity of the attire. The delicate fabrics, the ornate jewelry, and the subtle makeup made him feel more like a bride than a groom.

During one of the fittings, Prince Abhey entered the chamber. Their eyes met, and for a moment, the world around them faded. Abhey approached Nivin, admiring the intricate details of his attire. "You look stunning," he whispered, his voice filled with genuine admiration. Nivin blushed, "Thank you, Prince Abhey. Your kingdom has been very welcoming." Abhey smiled, "I'm glad. I want you to feel at home here."

As the wedding day approached, Nivin couldn't help but feel anxious. The union, although political, was based on mutual respect and understanding. However, the circumstances that led to this alliance weighed heavily on his heart. The grandeur of the wedding was unlike anything Nivin had ever seen. Nobles and dignitaries from various kingdoms graced the occasion. The castle was adorned with flowers and lights, creating a magical ambiance. Soft melodies filled the air as dancers and musicians performed, celebrating the union of two powerful kingdoms.

As Nivin walked towards the dais, accompanied by Princess Ashmitha, he felt a mix of emotions. The grand hall echoed with whispers as the guests marveled at his beauty. However, amidst the celebrations, a sense of longing filled his heart. He wished his family was there, witnessing this historic alliance. 

In the heart of the grand hall of Alantara's majestic castle, beneath a canopy of shimmering lights and amidst the gentle hum of the gathered nobility, Prince Nivin and Prince Abhey stood facing each other, their eyes reflecting a myriad of emotions. As the sacred chants filled the air, signifying the commencement of their union, the two princes exchanged garlands. The fresh, fragrant flowers intertwined, symbolizing their acceptance and love for one another. With every heartbeat, their gaze remained locked, a silent promise exchanged between them, a testament to the depth of their bond and the journey they were embarking upon together.

Following the garland exchange, Prince Abhey, with reverence and tenderness, took the mangalsutra in his hands. This sacred thread, intricately woven with golden strands, held profound significance in Hindu tradition, symbolizing the eternal bond between husband and wife. As he delicately placed it around Nivin's neck, the hall fell into a hushed reverence. The gentle touch of the mangalsutra against Nivin's skin marked the union of the two souls. The journey from a beloved prince to the future queen of Alantara was filled with uncertainties.